Making some socket holders with HDPE-Question

[Fishchips]

I have a bunch of HDPE and was looking for some shop use ideas. I need about 15-20 socket holders and this might be just the ticket. I don't have a mill so I'm not sure if I could do this. I'd like it a one piece design also, roughly like the pic below. What does the HM think?

I spent most of the night looking at a community college machining program. The math pre-reqs would kill me. The only other way is to buy a mill and dive in (cheaper also). Thanks all.

 

[Tom Griffin]

Unfortunately HDPE doesn't machine very well. It's so soft that it moves around and leaves lots of burrs that are difficult to remove. The part shown would be near impossible to machine with the tall thin features. If you do try machining it, use brand new HSS end mills and hope for the best.

If you really want to use it as a socket holder, just use the HDPE for the base and press pins into it for the sockets. Just a thought.

Tom

 

[Fishchips]

The plastic pins are the weak link in the molded tray. A press fit with the HDPE could work.